THE JOURNAL

PEOPLE & CRAFT / INTERVIEW 01

Beyond Beautiful Nails

A Conversation with Mina Oe

On craftsmanship, compassion and the extraordinary possibilities of nail care.

OCTOBER 2026 · JAPAN NAIL STUDIO

Portrait of Mina Oe
Mina Oe — Tokyo, Japan

01 / A MEETING IN TOKYO

More Than a Dream Come True

An Editor's Note — Japan Nail Studio

As a nail technician, one of my little dreams was to get my nails done in Japan.

Not just because I wanted beautiful nails (of course I did!), but because I was so curious about how Japanese nail technicians work. I wanted to experience their techniques, see the differences and learn something new.

Before my trip, I contacted SHINYGEL to ask when would be a good time to visit their shop in Tokyo.

I wasn't expecting anything special. I was travelling all the way from Ireland, and I simply wanted to visit the shop, explore their products and maybe ask a few questions.

At that time, I was just a SHINYGEL user from Ireland.

But when I arrived, something completely unexpected happened.

Mina Sensei and Ms. Fumie Kobayakawa welcomed me and my family so warmly.

And they had already prepared a nail station with products!

I remember thinking, Wait… is this really happening?!

They started showing me how the SHINYGEL system worked, explaining the products and demonstrating different techniques.

And the best part?

They actually let me try everything on my own nails!

Funny enough, I had no product on my nails that day.

For a nail technician, that's quite unusual! But because I was travelling for a whole month, I had decided to keep my nails completely natural.

And wow, was I glad I did!

I could experience the products directly, practise the techniques and ask as many questions as I wanted.

Before that visit, I was mostly familiar with SHINYGEL's tools. But that day, I finally got to understand what their gel products could actually do.

I was so excited and curious. I probably asked a hundred questions!

And then there was my husband.

He had been sitting there patiently while I was completely lost in my little nail world.

Mina Sensei kindly included him in the experience too.

She demonstrated the process on one of his nails, step by step, from beginning to end, so I could watch the entire technique.

Which was amazing for learning.

But also…

Excuse me?! HE got his nail done by an experienced Japanese nail technician, and I didn't?!

I was a little jealous!

Of course, I was also really happy because I got to see the whole process from another perspective.

Even though we had a little language barrier, it didn't stop us from understanding each other.

We talked about nails, shared stories about our clients and compared our experiences working in different countries.

In Ireland, many of my clients love French manicures, ombré and simple, elegant nails. In Japan, I was fascinated by the variety of nail art and creative techniques.

It reminded me that even when we speak different languages, the nail world has its own language.

Looking back, that visit was more than a dream come true.

I had hoped to experience Japanese nail techniques, but I ended up learning directly from professionals who were so kind and generous with their knowledge.

It became one of my favourite memories from my entire Japan trip.

And when I later asked Mina Sensei if she would be interested in an interview for the very first issue of Japan Nail Studio's magazine, she said yes.

Another moment when I thought…

Wait, really?!

I felt so lucky and excited.

So here we are.

I'm very happy to share this conversation with Mina Sensei, not only about Japanese nail techniques, but also about her life, her experiences and the beautiful things she has been doing through her work.

I hope you enjoy getting to know her as much as I enjoyed learning from her.

— Japan Nail Studio
Even when we speak different languages, the nail world has its own language.
ENKHSUVD TAMIR · JAPAN NAIL STUDIO
02 / THE ARTIST BEHIND THE CRAFT

A Career Built on Care

From personal experience to a lifetime of teaching.

For Mina Oe, a career in nails began with something deeply personal.

As a teenager, she struggled with very short, deeply bitten nails and felt self-conscious about their appearance.

Years later, while working in a different industry, she discovered an article about nail salons in New York.

The idea of a nail salon as a place where women could connect and feel confident fascinated her.

She began attending nail school while continuing her full-time job.

Through proper nail care, she experienced a transformation in the appearance of her own nails — and, more importantly, in her confidence.

That experience inspired her to help others who felt the same way.

Nearly 30 years later, her work has grown far beyond the traditional nail salon.

Today, Mina is a manicurist, educator, SHINYGEL product adviser and psychological counsellor whose work connects beauty, education, healthcare and social inclusion.

Mina Oe — Affiliations & Titles
SHINYGEL Division, World Beauty Works Co., Ltd.
President, International Nail Association (I-NAIL-A)
Board Member, Community Counselor Network Association

03 / THE CONVERSATION

Beyond Beautiful Nails

A conversation about craftsmanship, compassion and the power of nail care.
QUESTION 01

What does being a nail professional mean to you?

I want to change the perception that nail services are simply about elaborate nail art.

Nail care can support people's emotional well-being, everyday lives and participation in society.

I hope to promote nail communication, wellness nail care and sustainable services that consider both people and the environment.

My goal is to create an environment where everyone can enjoy nail care with confidence, regardless of their age, disability or illness.

QUESTION 02

What is one common belief in the nail industry that you would challenge?

I would like nail professionals to question the idea that longer-lasting nails always mean better service.

Not all nail products are the same. Prioritising durability alone can sometimes place unnecessary stress on natural nails.

It is important to choose products and techniques that suit each client's nail condition and personal preferences.

I hope professionals will consider the health of their clients' nails not only during the current appointment, but also when they return for their next service.

QUESTION 03

What advice would you give nail professionals who want to improve their work?

Never become completely satisfied with your current techniques.

Continue asking yourself, "How can I provide an even better service for my clients?"

Carefully observe their nails and skin, and take the time to understand their wishes and everyday lifestyles.

I believe that truly good nail services begin with understanding the person in front of you.

04 / BEYOND BEAUTY

When Nail Care Changes Lives

The quiet power of care, confidence and human connection.
01 / A PERSONAL TURNING POINT

A Different Kind of Beauty

For Mina Oe, one of the most meaningful turning points in her career came through a deeply personal loss.

After losing a close friend to cancer, she began exploring how her knowledge of nail care could support people undergoing cancer treatment.

In 2009, she started working in nail appearance care, helping people experiencing changes to their nails during treatment.

What began as a personal motivation became a long-term commitment to supporting people through nail care.

02 / CARE BEYOND THE SALON

Small Details, Meaningful Differences

Over the years, Mina has brought her professional knowledge into healthcare environments.

Her volunteer work has included supporting patients at the University of Tokyo Hospital and the National Cancer Center Hospital East in Japan.

Through nail consultations, appropriate care and personal conversations, she has worked to support patients' quality of life and self-confidence.

Her experience demonstrates that nail care can have a meaningful place beyond traditional beauty services.

Sometimes, caring for someone's nails is also a way of caring for the person behind them.
03 / CREATING OPPORTUNITIES

A Profession Without Barriers

Another important turning point came when Mina met a student with a disability who dreamed of becoming a nail professional.

Rather than focusing on the challenges, they began exploring how that dream could become possible.

Over the following years, Mina became involved in training nail professionals with disabilities and supporting opportunities for employment.

Nail services have since become a competition category in Japan's Abilympics, while some major companies have introduced workplace nail salons where professionals with disabilities provide services to employees.

Mina continues to support the development of skills, confidence and professional opportunities through nail education.

Mina Oe providing nail care to an attendee at a cancer-related event in Japan.
Nail appearance care at a cancer-related event in Japan.
Mina Oe seated at a nail care station during a hospital event in Japan.
A moment during a hospital nail care event in Japan.
05 / TOKYO NOTES

The Art of Japanese Nails

Autumn trends, thoughtful techniques and a different approach to nail beauty.
01 / AUTUMN IN TOKYO

The Beauty of Tortoiseshell

Autumn in Japan brings a beautiful shift towards warm, rich colours and layered nail designs.

Tortoiseshell-inspired nails, with their translucent amber and brown tones, are one of the seasonal looks Mina discusses.

The technique creates depth through carefully layered colour, allowing each nail to have its own natural-looking pattern.

02 / JAPANESE NAIL TRENDS

A Preference for Subtle Beauty

Japanese nail trends continue to evolve, balancing creative expression with understated elegance.

Mina highlights the popularity of magnetic gels and designs that create delicate movement and dimension through light.

Alongside colour and design, she also sees growing interest in services that consider the condition of the natural nail.

03 / THE JAPANESE APPROACH

Technique Begins with Observation

For Mina, professional nail services begin before the application of any product.

She emphasises observing the condition of the nails and surrounding skin, understanding each client's lifestyle and listening carefully to their preferences.

The most suitable technique is not necessarily the same for every person.

Thoughtful consultations and careful observation help professionals provide services that suit the individual.

Beautiful nail work begins with understanding the natural nail.
04 / JAPANESE INNOVATION

Rethinking Nail Products

Innovation in Japanese nail technology is not only about creating new colours and effects.

Mina's professional experience includes working with SHINYGEL products and sharing knowledge about different gel systems.

Her interview discusses developments such as SHINYGEL Professional POWER BASE nano-ZEO and SHINYGEL Professional BIOMASS GEL TOP, reflecting an interest in how nail products and professional practices can continue to evolve.

For nail professionals, understanding product characteristics is an important part of choosing appropriate services for their clients.

06 / THE PERSON BEHIND THE PROFESSION

Beyond the Nail Studio

The little things that inspire a life dedicated to care and creativity.
01 / LIFE BEYOND WORK

Finding Inspiration in Everyday Life

Beyond her work as a nail educator, Mina enjoys discovering new places, experiencing different cultures and spending time in nature.

Travelling allows her to step outside everyday routines, while conversations with people from different industries, art exhibitions and natural landscapes offer fresh perspectives.

At home, she treasures time with her two rescue cats, whom she welcomed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Their unpredictable personalities and the simple moments they share bring her happiness and comfort.

02 / WORDS TO LIVE BY

The Beauty of Every Encounter

When asked about the words she holds close to her heart, Mina shared a traditional Japanese expression:

一期一会
Ichigo Ichie
Treasure each encounter. Every moment and every meeting is unique and cannot be taken for granted.

For Mina, time is not unlimited. The people we meet and the moments we share deserve our attention.

She hopes to approach each encounter with sincerity, making the most of what she can offer in that moment.

03 / THE LITTLE THINGS

A Minute with Mina

A few personal favourites, straight from her interview.
Coffee or Tea?
Coffee
Morning or Night?
Morning
Favourite Season
Summer
Favourite Colour
Mint Green
Always in Her Bag
Frankincense Aroma Oil
Currently Learning
Psychology
Perfect Day Off
Parks & Shrines
A Little Luxury
A Hot Spring Day Trip
A Place to Visit
Kyoto & Views of Mt Fuji
Japanese Food to Try
Ramen
07 / A BOOK WITH A PURPOSE

Knowledge That Makes a Difference

Bringing professional nail care knowledge into cancer treatment and patient support.
01 / THE STORY BEHIND THE BOOK

Sharing Knowledge Beyond the Hospital

Throughout her career, Mina Sensei has explored how professional nail care can support people facing difficult circumstances.

Her experiences volunteering in hospitals since 2009 revealed the concerns that cancer patients may experience when treatment affects the appearance and condition of their nails.

Mina recognised a need for accessible, practical information about nail appearance care during cancer treatment.

Although she could only meet a limited number of patients and healthcare professionals in person, a book could help her share that knowledge with a much wider audience.

02 / THE PUBLICATION

A Practical Guide to Nail Appearance Care

Japanese book cover of Nail Appearance Care During Cancer Treatment, co-authored by Mina Oe and Yayoi Ogasawara, published in 2025.
MINA OE / 2025
がん治療における
爪のアピアランスケア
Nail Appearance Care During Cancer Treatment
Authors: Yayoi Ogasawara & Mina Oe
Medical supervision: Takako Wakida
Publisher: Kawade Shobo Shinsha, Ltd.
Published: 2025
Language: Japanese

Published in 2025, Mina's book explores nail changes and concerns associated with cancer treatment.

Using full-colour illustrations, it introduces approaches to nail appearance care for patients, families, healthcare professionals and specialists in the nail and beauty industries.

The publication brings together knowledge gained through years of hospital volunteering, conversations with patients and healthcare professionals, and Mina's practical experience.

Prepared under medical supervision, the book aims to provide useful information to people experiencing nail-related concerns during cancer treatment.

03 / THE PURPOSE

Helping People Feel Like Themselves

For Mina, the purpose of writing this book extends beyond explaining nail care.

She hopes it will support people who feel troubled by changes to their nails or who have lost confidence because of changes to their appearance.

It is also intended to help the healthcare professionals supporting them.

Her hope is that people can continue to feel like themselves and find moments of confidence and happiness, even while facing illness.

Knowledge can reach people we may never have the opportunity to meet.
JAPAN NAIL STUDIO / EDITORIAL REFLECTION
Editorial note: This feature is based on Mina Oe's Japanese interview, translated and edited for clarity. The book is an educational resource and does not replace individual medical advice.
08 / A MESSAGE TO THE WORLD

From Fingertips
to the Future

The possibilities of nail care are greater than we imagine.
A MESSAGE FROM MINA SENSEI

Nail care is a wonderful profession that allows us to connect with people and bring smiles and confidence into their lives.

Through beautiful nail art, care that supports healthy nails, and services offered with compassion, we can enrich our clients' lives.

At the same time, our work can contribute to our own personal growth, financial independence and society.

I hope that nail professionals around the world will continue expanding the possibilities of our industry without placing limits on what we can achieve.

Together, let us create a future filled with smiles, beginning at our fingertips.

Mina Oe
JAPANESE NAIL EDUCATOR
A NOTE FROM JAPAN NAIL STUDIO

What We Take Home

When we travelled from Ireland to Tokyo, we hoped to discover more about Japanese nail techniques, products and professional education.

Meeting Mina Sensei reminded us that the most meaningful lessons are not always about technique alone.

They are also about how we approach our clients, how we continue learning, and how we use our skills to make a difference.

Her story offers a perspective that reaches beyond the nail studio: craftsmanship becomes even more valuable when it is guided by care.

We are grateful to Mina Sensei for sharing her experiences, knowledge and personal reflections with our readers.

Beautiful nails may begin with technique.

Meaningful nail care begins with people.
JAPAN NAIL STUDIO / EDITORIAL REFLECTION
INTERVIEW & CREDITS
Featured Guest
Mina Oe
Interview
Enkhsuvd Tamir
Translation
Japan Nail Studio
Editorial
Japan Nail Studio
Publication
Japan Nail Studio Journal / October 2026
This interview was originally conducted in Japanese. Responses have been translated and edited for clarity, readability and length while preserving the contributor's meaning.